Hoka Kaha 2 GTX - Women's Review

The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is an excellent choice for those serious hikers who prioritize comfort, support, and durability in their hiking boots. With over two inches of plush cushion underfoot, a stable and supportive base, and killer traction through variable terrain, these boots inspire confidence that increases with every mile. A high-quality and completely waterproof design makes it easy for our testing team to recommend the Kaha 2 for protection in precipitous weather conditions, in addition to durability when navigating technical terrain.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

The Kaha 2 GTX prioritizes comfort above all else. The symmetrical and plush-cushioned footbed is one of the thickest models we tested, featuring over two inches of foam under each foot. Our testers found the substantial foam protection to be a double-edged sword. Though the thick foam prevents any discomfort when inevitably encountering rocks, stumps, or roots on the trail, it also takes some time to adjust to. We found it necessary to lift our foot a little higher to prevent tripping over the rocks and stumps that the cushion conceals.

Another caveat to the supreme foam comfort of the Kaha 2 GTX is the stiffer construction, which we attribute to the leather upper, Gore-Tex, and water repellency treatment. This resulted in a longer break-in period than a boot that offers a little more flex in the forefoot right out of the box. That being said, after just a couple of day hikes, we were experiencing full range of motion and appreciating the soft and anatomical cushioning underfoot.

Support

Perhaps one of the most supportive and stable hiking boots we've tested, the Kaha 2 GTX showed its superiority over the competition. Features like the CMEVA midsole and Hubble heel with swallowtail design create a new level of stability underfoot but also create a futuristic look. While some boots that we tested were designed with a softer ankle cushion, the ankle protection of the Kaha is rigid, featuring three solid metal hooks that prevented our ankles from rolling on the trail.

Another notable feature is the meta-rocker technology, which contributes to the stable base of this thicker boot. Our testers found that between the extended swallowtail design (which extends the length of the shoe a little further beyond the heel), the wide base, the rocker design of the sole, and the rigid ankle shaft, we were confident to take on the burliest of backcountry missions.

Traction

Thanks to the integration of a Vibram Megagrip rubber on the outsole with a significant 5mm lug and tread pattern, these boots performed well on every type of terrain, whether we were moving through polished boulders or switching it up to desert sandstone.

The Kaha 2 GTX inspired confidence in every condition outside of ice, even when navigating slick boulders and decomposing granite that became wet after a significant rain storm in the Eastern Sierra. The thick and aggressive lugs provide solid traction with every step as long as the terrain isn't completely frozen solid.

Water Resistance

Unsurprisingly, the Kaha 2 GTX performed well in this metric. The height of the boot measures over 7 inches and prevents water from entering through the top. Plus, the Gore-Tex waterproof membrane and a waterproof leather upper sealed these boots off during our water submersion tests. Keep in mind that the trade-off for this high level of water resistance is a reduction in breathability.

After a long climbing approach to the high alpine while moving through soggy snow conditions, we noticed that the leather upper retained some water; however, the membrane effectively protected our feet from getting wet on the boot's interior. The Kaha 2 GTX has a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane rather than an eVent waterproof liner, as in previous Hoka models we've tested. The updated membrane performed well, and our feet remained warm and dry throughout our testing period. We found that the high shaft height and the seal created by tightening the laces down kept water out effectively, even when submerged for up to one minute.

Weight

Sometimes, there is a caveat to a high-performing and feature-rich product, and here is where we'll identify it. Unfortunately, the Kaha 2 GTX is one of the heavier hiking boots we tested. Weighing in at 2 pounds per pair of women's size 8 US, this boot is not considered lightweight. That said, other boots in this review within a similar weight range did not offer anywhere close to the same amount of comfort and support.

While this is the only metric where the Kaha 2 GTX didn't shine, our testers never felt weighed down, even when moving in these boots for an entire day. The excellent features and support balance out the slight increase in weight.

Durability

The Kaha 2 GTX received high marks in this metric, thanks to its all-leather upper, reinforced metal eyelets, and firmly-cushioned sole. The waterproof fabric, in addition to the DWR water-repellency treatment, also helps to increase the durability of this boot.

While not a traditional hiker, this boot is perhaps the burliest of all the contemporary hiking boots we tested. The leather upper is subject to some scuffs and micro tears after encountering rocks and stumps on the trail, but we consider this normal for boots with similar construction. Besides a few cosmetic abrasions, we are happy to report that the Kaha 2 experienced no durability issues during our testing period. We would gladly choose these boots for even the most intense backcountry excursions.

Should You Buy the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX?

The Kaha 2 is incredibly comfortable and supportive around the ankle. The aggressive 5mm lug pattern and the swallowtail design provide confidence on the trails thanks to a stable base you can really count on. The all-leather uppers make them durable and water-resistant, though they don't offer a ton of breathability. These are a great pick for extended backpacking trips or day hikes if you're looking for all-day comfort and top-of-the-line support.

What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?

These boots are an investment; however, if you want to prioritize comfort, support, and stability, all in a waterproof design, the Kaha 2 GTX boots live up to the hype. If you want to stick with the iconic Hoka cushion but are interested in a boot that offers more breathability at a more affordable price point, check out the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX. Also, if you are after something a little more affordable with modest comfort and excellent support, check out the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II. For those interested in all-day comfort with a lot less foam underfoot and a zero-drop design, have a peak at the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2.